The Negative Effects of Artificial Insemination

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HEATHER TOPHAM WOOD Last Updated: Oct 15, 2015

Heather Topham Wood

Heather Topham Wood is a seasoned writer whose work has appeared in numerous publications, including USA Today, Gadgetell, Feel Rich and Step in Style. Heather is a published novelist with six Amazon bestsellers and a contract through Crescent Moon Press. She holds a bachelor's degree in English from TCNJ.

Artificial insemination is a type of fertility procedure that can help a couple conceive a child. It is often used when a partner has a low sperm count or poor sperm motility. Women without male partners or a woman with unexplained infertility can also benefit from artificial insemination. Artificial insemination places the sperm into the woman’s uterus at the time of ovulation. Speak to your doctor about some potential negative effects of this procedure.

Pain

Some women will feel cramping during artificial insemination. They may also experience some discomfort while the catheter is being inserted. The catheter is placed inside your cervix in order to transport the sperm during the procedure. You may also develop a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. This causes your ovaries to become swollen and painful.

Discouragement

It can be discouraging to some women if they don’t become pregnant right away while going through artificial insemination. According to BabyCenter, there is between a 5 and 20 percent success rate per cycle that a woman will conceive through artificial insemination.

Embarrassment

For some men, it may be embarrassing to go through the process of artificial insemination. The man must be able to quickly produce a sperm sample at the doctor’s office prior to the procedure. If the man is unable to adequately produce a sperm sample, the couple may have to retry during the next cycle.

Cost

Another negative aspect is the high cost of artificial insemination. The price per cycle can range between $1,500 and $4,000. This price includes other necessities, such as ultrasound testing, blood work and fertility drug treatments. If your insurance policy does not cover this, you are responsible for the costs.

Multiple Births

It is possible that artificial insemination may lead to a greater risk of multiples. Multiples can lead to an increased chance of pregnancy complications.